Abstract: An emergency response kiosk that stores vital emergency response supplies and functions as an on-site command and control center. The kiosk includes a tamper-proof locker box mounted atop a pedestal base. The locker box stores essential communication equipment, as well as other administrative gear and supplies necessary to establish on-site command and control operations. A hinged locker door and latch mechanism allows access only to authorized personnel. The kiosk is designed to be positioned at various strategic locations to provide first responders pre-staged decentralized access to vital medical supplies and equipment, as well as certain tactical gear and equipment in the event of a mass casualty event.

Abstract: A system and method for advancing cash to merchants participating in a consumer card-based payment network. The system/method provides low cost working capital to merchants by aggregating lending offers from perspective lenders with borrowing applications from merchants to match the supply of capital with the demand for loans whereby an effective interest rate can be determined. The risk profile associated with a particular merchant, as well as the loan amount and duration, can also be considered when determining the effective interest rate.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for rotatably supporting movable components, including canards. An apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes an airfoil configured positioned external to an aircraft fuselage. A connecting portion can depend from the airfoil portion and can have an attachment portion configured to attach to an aircraft internal to the aircraft fuselage. Rollers carried by one of the connecting portion and the fuselage can rotatably contact a track carried by the other of the connecting portion and the fuselage.

Abstract: A multi-layer protective shield for a stroller with an inflatable frame supporting a series of layers providing protection against sun, rain, wind, and insects. The protective shield includes at least two protective layers. At least one layer is resistant to UV radiation. The layers include a film layer adapted to protect a child seated in the stroller from rain. The film layer is resistant to UV radiation. At least one layer is a netting layer adapted to protect the child from flying insects. The protective layers may include an opaque layer composed of a flexible metalized plastic material. The inflatable frame and the layers each pivot with respect to the stroller. The protective layers are supported by the frame. One or more fans may be included to encourage air circulation.

Abstract: A modular unit including at least one connector for a plurality of rods. The connector is made of an outer tension band; a compression member fitting within the outer tension band; and from one to three structural rods at the end of each leg of the compression member within the outer tension band. Each compression member contains an offset incline surface between opposing sections, and a hole through the sections for a tightening fastener to be inserted. When force is applied to the fastener to bring the compression member sections together, the incline surface transmits the force at right angles and the compression member expands until the structural rods are tight against the inner wall of the outer tension band. The connector may have 2-4 legs and a cluster of 1-3 structural rods at the end of each leg. A modular framing unit is formed with one or more connectors holding together selected rectangular, U-shaped and other rod portions.